You don’t have to travel to exotic countries to see strange and interesting animals that you have never seen before. Your backyard is home to some of the most bizarre and interesting animals on earth, insects. Insects are miniature animals that vary greatly in size, appearance, biology, and behavior, and they are by far the most abundant form of wildlife on the planet. There are more species of insects than all other species of animals and plants combined!

The 4-H Entomology Project provides 4-Hers an opportunity to study and learn about insects. 4-Hers can participate in entomology projects in any or all of three different ways: 1} by making and exhibiting an insect collection, 2} by competing in insect identification contests, and 3} by giving visual presentations about insects and how they affect our lives. Each of these competitions provides 4-Hers with an opportunity to learn about different aspects of entomology and to acquire skills and experience that will benefit them throughout their life, but the main reason most 4-Hers like to study insects is that entomology is fun!

For more information about the 4-H Entomology Project contact the Department of Entomology at Mississippi State University, 662-325-2085.